Open Source Software

Krichel, T. (2009). From open source to open libraries.  Bulletin of the American Society for Information Science and Technology, 35(2), 39-46.

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Abstract of the Article:

Theoretically, Krichel (2009) makes an analogy between library and open source software (OSS) as a form of service.  In terms of interface, software uses the mouse button and text field; whereas the library service has building and staff.  In terms of organization, software uses various source codes, while the library catalogs its collection.  Lastly, in terms of objects of interest, software works on files and the library works on books. 

On the practical level, Krichel (2009) discusses OSS from the social science perspective.  According to him, one key factor for the success of OSS is the sense of ownership it gives to the community.  Everyone may not just download or read the program but may re-write, re-pack, and re-develop it to serve one’s functional purpose.  Another factor pertains to the way it has valued time.  Developing OSS is tantamount to “making a huge piece (sic) of complex information available” by splitting “the task into small bits” and by assigning “a volunteer to each bit”.  In this way, any person involve in the process spends relatively a small amount of his time.  Another key factor is the way OSS may be reuse.  OSS such as the Perl and C code modules are being reuse in developing other OSS.  Thus, one need not start from scratch but rather builds on the knowledge of others.  For Krichel (2009), libraries should cope with the development in OSS.  However, technical incompetence of library staff, the myth of industry, and the myth of full text are just some of the challenges to achieving open libraries.

  

3 Things I Learned:

1.       Although theoretically neglected, OSS is in itself a form of service.

2.       Myth of industry refers to the tendency of people to apply rigid control over the usage of one’s work.

3.       The use of Perl and C codes in software programming.

Application / Implication:

Having learned about the nature and possible benefits of OSS, I am challenged to look for one that may facilitate a more efficient legal information service for my work place.